Northwest Missouri State University is a state-assisted, four-year regional university in Maryville, Missouri. The campus is a comprehensive Electronic Campus, with a networked PC in every residence hall room. Northwest was founded in 1905 with a recognized tradition of quality education. The university is governed by a state-appointed Board of Regents and headed by President Dr. Dean L. Hubbard.

Northwest competes in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (Division II) and Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association for men's and women's sports. The mascot is a Bearcat. The Bearcats have won two NCAA Division II national championships (1998 and 1999) in football.

Notable alumni of Northwest Missouri State include Dr. Sharon Browning, Dr. Virgil Albertini and former major league baseball player Gary Gaetti.

Although not specialized in the mathematical sciences, Northwest Missouri State University is the parent institution for the Missouri Academy of Science, Mathematics and Computing.